Introduction to the Texecom Odyssey 3 Back Assembly (Blue LEDs) — FCC-1174
TheTexecom Odyssey 3 Back Assembly (Blue LEDs) — FCC-1174is a purpose-built replacement electronics module for the Texecom Premier Elite Odyssey 3 external sounder. Designed for Grade 3 external alarm installations, this back assembly brings together a high-output audible element, a powerful xenon strobe and rugged weatherproofing to provide a reliable external alarm solution. Key highlights include twin piezo sounders delivering up to 115 dB(A) peak at 1 m, a 1 Ws xenon flash tube operating at around 1 Hz, IP65 sealed electronics and triple tamper detection (wall, screw and lid). This combination makes the unit suitable for demanding residential, commercial and industrial environments where robust deterrence and visibility are required.
Key features at a glance
- High sound output:Twin piezo sounders — up to 115 dB peak at 1 m (A-weighted) in SAB mode.
- Visible deterrent:1 Ws xenon strobe with a typical 1 Hz flash rate; alternates 1 Hz in tamper-secure mode.
- Weatherproof construction:IP65 sealed electronics and 3 mm polycarbonate housing for outdoor use.
- Battery backup:NiMH standby battery stack (7.2 V nominal, 250 mAh).
- Tamper protection:Triple tamper detection — wall, screw and lid.
- Installation-friendly modes:Selectable low-current modes, strobe tube saver and patented Engineer Hold-Off for safe servicing.
- Compliance:Designed to meet industry installation expectations; refer to Texecom datasheet for CE/UKCA and other markings.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the technical specifications helps explain where this back assembly excels and why it’s a preferred choice for Grade 3 external alarm work.
- Supply voltage:12–16 VDC (13.7 V nominal) — compatible with standard alarm system supplies.
- Flash tube:1 Ws xenon — bright and instantaneous visual alerting.
- Flash rate:1 Hz typical; alternates 1 Hz in tamper-secure mode to increase visibility and draw attention.
- Standby battery:NiMH stack, 7.2 V nominal, 250 mAh — provides short-duration backup for alarm/siren operation when mains is lost.
- Typical quiescent current:Approximately 18 mA (mode dependent) — conservative sleep current to reduce system load.
- Strobe current (typical):~100 mA at 13.7 V — gives a high-intensity flash without excessive power draw when active.
- Rated environment:Residential / commercial / industrial (EMC environment).
- Operating temperature:−25 °C to +55 °C — suitable for most outdoor climates.
- Storage temperature:−25 °C to +60 °C.
- Environmental protection:IP65 sealed electronics — protection against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets.
- Sound output:115 dB peak at 1 m (A-weighted, 90°) in SAB mode — high acoustic deterrent level.
- Cut-off time:<15 minutes — typical endurance limit for alarm activation under specified conditions.
- Material:3 mm polycarbonate — robust, UV-resistant housing material.
- Dimensions:315 mm × 306 mm × 78 mm (H × W × D) — compact for a Grade 3 external unit.
- Packed weight:Approx. 1250 g.
- Tamper detection:Wall, screw & lid — helps ensure that attempts to disable the unit are detected.
- Comfort LEDs:~100 mcd — visible status indicators for installers and users.
Benefits derived from these specifications include strong audible and visual deterrence, long-term outdoor reliability thanks to IP65 sealing and robust materials, and installer-friendly options that reduce maintenance risk and power consumption during service. The selectable low-current modes and strobe tube saver help manage battery life and system load without compromising alarm effectiveness when required.
Use cases and scenarios where the Odyssey 3 back assembly excels
This back assembly is engineered for demanding external alarm applications. Typical scenarios include:
- Residential perimeter protection:For larger homes, gated properties and estates where a high-output external alarm provides a clear deterrent and aids police response.
- Commercial premises:Retail parks, warehouses and small industrial units benefit from both audible and visible alerting to warn intruders and notify neighbours or security staff.
- Industrial sites:Harsh environments where IP65-rated electronics and robust housings are essential to withstand dust and moisture.
- Remote or unmanned sites:Locations where a loud siren combined with a bright strobe increases the chance of detection and response when staff or neighbours are not immediately present.
- Retrofit projects:As a replacement/back assembly for existing Odyssey 3 installations, it allows system refresh without full enclosure replacement.
In each case the combination of 115 dB acoustic output and a 1 Ws strobe provides a strong multi-sensory warning that improves detection and deterrence. The triple tamper detection and sealed electronics reduce false alarms and maintenance visits associated with ingress or physical interference.
How it compares with similar products on the market
When considering external alarm sounders, buyers commonly balance three factors: output (sound and light), environmental resilience and installer convenience. The Odyssey 3 back assembly positions itself strongly across these dimensions.
- Vs. basic economy sounders:Lower-cost external sounders often use a single piezo or low-power electronic siren, produce significantly less dB and lack a strobe or IP65 sealing. The Odyssey 3’s twin piezo array, xenon strobe and IP65-sealed electronics deliver superior deterrence and weatherproofing.
- Vs. enclosed full units:Full external sounder assemblies from premium manufacturers may include similar electronics, but replacing just the back assembly (FCC-1174) can be a cost-effective option for maintenance or upgrades of existing Odyssey 3 housings without purchasing a full new enclosure.
- Vs. monitored/EN-standard units:Some higher-tier, alarm-system-integrated devices offer monitored outputs and EN54 certification for fire applications. The Odyssey 3 back assembly is designed for intruder alarm use and Grade 3 security; if EN54 fire compliance or system-level monitoring is required, those specialist products are more appropriate. The Odyssey model remains a strong choice where robust external intruder deterrence is the priority.
Overall, the Odyssey 3 back assembly delivers a compelling balance of performance, environmental protection and serviceability that compares favourably against economy units and provides a practical upgrade path against buying entire new housings.
Customer feedback and typical installer commentary
Specific public customer reviews for the FCC-1174 back assembly are limited because it is most often bought and fitted by professional installers as a replacement module. However, typical feedback themes from installers and end-users for the Odyssey 3 family include:
- "Reliable outdoor performance" — installers note that IP65 sealing and robust polycarbonate housings reduce call-backs due to water ingress.
- "Easy serviceability" — the availability of a back-assembly replacement and features like Engineer Hold-Off simplify safe maintenance and reduce downtime.
- "Strong deterrent effect" — customers report that the combined strobe and 115 dB siren significantly increases perceived security by neighbours and passers-by.
- "Energy-conscious modes" — selectable low-current options and tube saver modes help manage battery life during long deployments or standby periods.
These recurring comments indicate that, in practical use, the product meets the expectations of installers and property managers who prioritise reliability, maintainability and effective deterrence.
Conclusion — why choose the Texecom Odyssey 3 Back Assembly (Blue LEDs)
The Texecom Odyssey 3 Back Assembly (Blue LEDs) — FCC-1174 is a focused replacement module that delivers the key elements required of a Grade 3 external alarm: high acoustic output, a bright xenon strobe, triple tamper detection and IP65-rated electronics. It is an excellent choice where outdoor durability and visible/audible deterrence are essential. For installers, the back assembly format and service-friendly features such as Engineer Hold-Off and selectable low-current modes reduce installation risk and ongoing maintenance burden.
Whether used as a retrofit replacement for existing Odyssey 3 housings or as part of a new external alarm deployment, this module balances performance, weather resistance and practical installation features. For property owners and security professionals who require a proven, rugged external alarm solution with clear visual and acoustic deterrence, the Odyssey 3 back assembly is a compelling option. For full compliance and installation details, always refer to the official Texecom datasheet and engage a qualified installer to ensure the unit meets local regulatory and application requirements.
